Design and concept images
To achieve our objectives and mandate to enhance the east coast of St Sampsons, we have been working to develop a series of projects in the local area. Whilst we await Guernsey’s Future Harbours Strategy, the East Coast Flood Defence Strategy, future energy supply plans and the potential relocation of fuel storage ‘blast zones’ that limit development in their vicinity, we have identified those projects within it that can add real value in the short term and deliver physical enhancements to the community.
To ensure momentum is kept whilst these wider strategy and policy decisions are made, we have created a sequence of enhancements that can deliver real improvements for the island. These have been endorsed by our Political Oversight Group.
The below images are concepts only and will be used to discuss and adjust plans throughout our consultation process, costings and feasibility work.
Vale Castle improvements
Dating back to the 15th century, Vale Castle is one of the island’s most iconic historic treasures. We have plans to maintain and preserve its unique heritage while expanding community access. A lack of modern infrastructure severely limits how often the public can safely and comfortably enjoy it. We want to equip the site with crucial infrastructure upgrades including plumbed toilet facilities, a suitable power supply for hosting events without generators, internet connectivity for on-site events and shelter for reliable weather protection. Accessibility will be improved for wheelchair users, parents with prams, and visitors of all abilities by upgrading the footpaths.
This allows the castle to host local businesses, weddings, community groups, and tourists on a regular basis all summer long, maximising its potential as a true island asset.
Transport and travel improvements
We’re planning a better overall layout for the Bridge area to provide al fresco areas, safe and scenic waterside active travel opportunities and easier public transport opportunities including a scenic cycling and walking promenade.
Opening up safer, cleaner commuting between St Sampsons and St Peter Port will reduce traffic congestion and encourage islanders and visitors to come and enjoy the newly enhanced area.
A lot of St Sampson’s scenic waterfront is taken up with parked cars which block the view and opportunity. Rearranging some of this car parking would allow the coastal cycling and walking promenade, waterside dining and community hubs we have had endorsed.
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A sheltered bus station
A new covered bus station will serve as a central travel hub to improve the public transport experience. Adding a new bus stop here will replace the bus stops outside M&G which will be replaced with the cycle track.
Parking
Currently, it is thought the projects would move 157 spaces currently blocking the water’s edge and these would be balanced with the addition of around 240 spaces on nearby land that would be convenient for visiting the area and its shops and businesses. We are in discussions with several landowners for this and will be sharing more details when this is finalised.
Have your say
The Guernsey Development Agency is a delivery team for Guernsey and we want to hear your views. We act as ‘the people’s ear’, ensuring our progress is built on community trust.
We know success comes from directly engaging with stakeholders including future users of the projects, which is why your feedback directly shapes how the enhancement of our coastline progresses.
We welcome constructive questioning and ideas that can shape Guernsey’s east coast enhancement.
Have your say here